This module provides an opportunity to gain practical experience of some of the This module provides an opportunity to gain practical experience of some of the key fieldwork activities of selected UK research organisations through a short work placement (10 days or equivalent) at ISER or another recognized survey organization The purpose is to expose students to, and enable them to work on, various activities that take place 'behind the scenes' in the day-to-day running of a large-scale survey research project. In this way, the module provides students with important applied knowledge and experience to complement the lecture-based modules, preparing them for employment as survey professionals or for postgraduate research work
The main component of the practicum is to undertake a discrete package of work at a recognized survey organization. This placement provides an opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained during the lectures in a practical situation. In so doing, students will gain knowledge, understanding and practical competence in some particular aspect of survey research that interests them. Students will choose from (or be allocated to) one of a number of work packages available.
In addition students will actively participate in ISER's monthly discussions of current developments in the survey methods field. Scientific articles will be critically discussed with respect to their innovation, importance and practical application in the convivial environment of a Journal Club (6 meetings).
This module is an important contribution to students' overall understanding of the survey design and data collection process. It provides an opportunity for a student to observe the work of survey organizations in practice and compare this with the theoretical knowledge obtained on other modules of the program. The students are encouraged to think critically about current practice, analysing potential improvements. While each student is likely to be assigned to different tasks and learn different aspects of survey practice, the students will share their experience with others in the end of the module through presentations.
The introduction to the Practicum takes place during autumn term and the work placement takes place during spring term or during a three week period over the Easter vacation. The division between self-directed and supervised work will be determined by the supervisor and overseen by the module convenor.
- Module Supervisor: Violetta Parutis